I remember one evening when my youngest asked for a special treat after a long day at school. “Can we have that peanut butter pie again?” she said with wide eyes. That simple request made me smile because this Peanut Butter Pie always brings us together. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a reason for us all to gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter.
Before I got the hang of this Peanut Butter Pie, I struggled to find the right balance between creamy and light. I wanted a pie that felt indulgent but didn’t weigh us down—perfect for busy evenings and special moments alike. After a few kitchen trials, I figured out exactly how to make this no-bake peanut butter pie come together effortlessly. Now, I make it with confidence, knowing it will be a hit with my family every time.
This creamy peanut butter dessert has become a go-to in our rotation because it’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and suits any occasion. The peanut butter pie crust offers a wonderful base that holds just the right amount of crunch, while the filling melts in your mouth. It has a way of making the meal feel complete and turns ordinary days into a little celebration.
If you’re looking for an easy peanut butter pie recipe that transforms simple ingredients into something everyone will ask for again, you’re in the right place. This recipe is forgiving, approachable, and always leads to smiles. Give this Peanut Butter Pie a try—you’ll find it’s the kind of dessert that brings your family closer with every slice.
What I love most about this Peanut Butter Pie is how versatile it is. Sometimes I add a chocolate peanut butter pie twist for those days when we crave a little extra indulgence. It matches perfectly with other favorites like homemade buttermilk biscuits or a warm comfort drink like hot buttered rum for the whole family to enjoy.
For a different take, pairing this no-bake peanut butter pie alongside quick meals like instant noodles with egg butter garlic makes for easy weeknight wins. These recipes all fit together nicely when you want delicious food with less fuss.
I encourage you to make this Peanut Butter Pie your own, adding your favorite touches and watching how it brings joy to your family’s table. Something as simple as this creamy peanut butter dessert can create memories that last far beyond the last bite.
What You’ll Need

Here’s a simple yet flavorful list of ingredients to make your Peanut Butter Pie a family favorite:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or use crushed peanut butter cookies for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (choose a quality brand for best results)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
- Optional toppings: chocolate shavings, peanuts, or caramel drizzle
For the best Peanut Butter Pie, I recommend fresh cream cheese and peanut butter with no added sugars or oils. These make the creamy peanut butter dessert smooth and rich without being overly sweet.
You’ll find everything for this Peanut Butter Pie at your regular grocery store, usually in the baking or dairy aisle. If you’re in a pinch, this Peanut Butter Pie is forgiving if you need to swap graham cracker crumbs for a pre-made peanut butter pie crust or if you use whipped topping instead of heavy cream.
A Peanut Butter Pie secret that makes all the difference is chilling the crust before filling it. This helps keep the crust firm and prevents sogginess. Also, whipping your cream just right is key to a fluffy but stable filling.
My family prefers when I add a little vanilla extract and a sprinkle of chopped peanuts on top to give some texture and extra flavor to our Peanut Butter Pie. It’s a small detail, but it makes our dessert feel extra special.
If you love peanut butter and want to try a chocolate peanut butter pie version, check out this Best Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie for a nice twist.
How to Make It
Let’s walk through making this Peanut Butter Pie step-by-step so it turns out perfect the first time. It typically takes me about 20 minutes to prepare and a few hours chilling time, which is perfect for a busy afternoon.
- Prep the crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl. Mix until crumbs are evenly coated and start to stick together. Press the mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie pan, making sure to cover the bottom and sides evenly. Place it in the fridge for about 15 minutes to chill and set.
- Make the filling: Beat the softened cream cheese and creamy peanut butter together in a large bowl until smooth and well combined. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until the mixture is creamy and fluffy.
- Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This means when you lift your beaters, the cream holds its shape without falling over.
- Combine the filling and whipped cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture with a spatula. This keeps the filling light and airy, giving that creamy peanut butter dessert feel. Be careful not to overmix!
- Assemble the pie: Pour the filling into the chilled crust and spread it evenly with your spatula.
- Chill: Refrigerate the Peanut Butter Pie for at least 3 hours or overnight. This lets everything set up and makes slicing easier.
During these steps, your kitchen will smell amazing with that peanut butter aroma filling the air! Don’t worry if the filling looks a little loose when you first put it in—the chilling will firm it up nicely.
Here’s where I used to mess up my Peanut Butter Pie: not chilling the crust long enough. Now I always wait, and you’ll notice a firmer base that holds your delicious filling better.
While your Peanut Butter Pie is chilling, you’ll have time to prep other parts of your meal, like homemade buttermilk biscuits or a warm cup of hot buttered rum for the adults.
If you want another easy peanut butter pie recipe alternative, An Easy No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe is a great place to look for simple twists.
Serving Ideas

My family loves this Peanut Butter Pie served chilled with a touch of chocolate on top. Everyone reaches for seconds when this Peanut Butter Pie comes out with a sprinkle of chocolate shavings or a drizzle of caramel.
It pairs wonderfully with simple coffee or even alongside a bowl of fresh berries to add a bright contrast to the creamy peanut butter dessert.
This Peanut Butter Pie feels right at home at any occasion: birthday parties, casual dinners, or holiday gatherings. When I want it to look extra special, I add some crushed peanuts on top and place the pie on a pretty cake stand—it’s a hit every time.
If you have leftovers, this Peanut Butter Pie keeps well covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen after resting a day, so it’s just as good the next day. My kids have even enjoyed it as an afternoon snack with a cold glass of milk.
Variations I’ve tried successfully include swapping out the peanut butter pie crust for chocolate cookie crumbs, turning it into a chocolate peanut butter pie combination. Another favorite is layering mini chopped Reese’s cups inside the filling for a fun surprise.
If your family enjoys this, they’ll also love quick weeknight meals paired with dessert, like instant noodles with egg butter garlic.
Your Questions Answered
Can I make this Peanut Butter Pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! This no-bake peanut butter pie actually tastes better the next day. Make it a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. It’s a great option for busy schedules.
What if I don’t have graham cracker crumbs for my Peanut Butter Pie crust?
You can swap in crushed cookies like peanut butter cookies or chocolate wafers. Even crushed pretzels add a salty crunch. The pie will still be delicious.
Is it okay to use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes! Crunchy peanut butter adds texture to the filling. My family loves that little extra bite inside the creamy peanut butter dessert.
How long will leftover Peanut Butter Pie last?
Store it covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. After that, the texture starts to change, so it’s best eaten sooner.
Can I freeze Peanut Butter Pie?
You can, but the texture may change after thawing. If you freeze it, thaw slowly in the fridge overnight before serving.
What can I use instead of heavy whipping cream?
Whipped topping works in a pinch but won’t be quite as fluffy or rich. For the best creamy peanut butter dessert, I recommend real heavy cream.
Can I make a chocolate peanut butter pie variation?
Definitely! For a chocolate peanut butter pie, layer chocolate ganache or add cocoa powder to the filling. Here’s a great no-bake chocolate peanut butter pie recipe to try out.
The Final Word
This Peanut Butter Pie has earned its place in my recipe collection because it brings my family together around the table and makes dessert time feel special without hours in the kitchen.
My Peanut Butter Pie Tips:
- Chill crust before filling to keep it firm.
- Fold whipped cream gently for light, airy filling.
- Let the pie rest overnight for best flavor and texture.
Variations that work well include adding chocolate layers, swapping crusts, or topping with nuts or caramel. My kids tend to prefer the classic creamy peanut butter dessert, while my husband loves the chocolate peanut butter pie twist.
I hope your family loves this Peanut Butter Pie as much as mine does. It’s simple to pull together and creates those meal wins that bring everyone back to the table with smiles.
Give it a try, and I’m sure you’ll find yourself making this recipe again and again. Don’t forget, if you enjoy this Peanut Butter Pie, you might also like pairing it with other comforting favorites like homemade buttermilk biscuits to round out your meal.
Enjoy every bite and the special moments this Peanut Butter Pie can bring to your family table!
Peanut Butter Pie
This creamy and rich Peanut Butter Pie combines a smooth peanut butter filling with a crunchy graham cracker crust for a perfect no-bake dessert.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Chocolate shavings or chopped peanuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish to form the crust.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the peanut butter and powdered sugar to the cream cheese and mix until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture until well combined and smooth.
- Pour the filling into the prepared crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours or until firm.
- Before serving, garnish with chocolate shavings or chopped peanuts if desired.
Notes
For an extra touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the top before serving or serve with a dollop of whipped cream.

